As the new year approached, I really started reflecting on the past 12 months and thinking about areas for improvement. While 2023 brought blessings, there were also hard lessons in self-sufficiency and resilience. Events caused financial strains, fractured relationships exposed my support network gaps, and pursuing my passions often took a backseat to just getting through daily demands.
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I don’t want 2024 to be more of the same status quo. This is the year for meaningful personal growth by taking accountability and control where possible. My focus needs to shift inward to build habits and skills that lead to greater independence, stability and purpose.
Save Aggressively Each Month
First and foremost, I vow to become a disciplined saver in 2024. Having a solid emergency fund and surplus cash means weathering unexpected crisis without spiraling into debt. Currently I live by my payout, leaving me vulnerable any time an unplanned expense arises.
Going forward, I will automate transfers from my payout directly into savings . Even if it’s just $20 a month to start with, making consistent deposits is key. I know cutting back on takeout and impulse purchases can help bolster my contributions over time. Soon that nest egg will grow large enough to serve as my financial safety net while opening doors for other investments.
Adopt Healthy Solo Hobbies
Too often my schedule revolves around others’ plans or caretaking obligations. While fostering relationships is important, I want to dedicate more time on my own terms to activities that nourish my spirit. Solo hobbies expand my worldview, relieve stress and boost emotional resilience even during seasons of instability.
The habits I hope to integrate include:
Exploring hands-on arts/crafts like whittling or pottery
Playing musical instruments for fun ,no need to master!
Learn Practical Life Skills
In addition to saving money, I plan to save myself future hassles by acquiring DIY skills for everyday challenges.
It’s time to start solving basic problems myself without relying or paying others.
I aim to watch tutorial videos and get hands-on practice in areas like:
Sewing for mending clothes/home goods
Also I have my elder sister who can also train me on this sewing of cloth, I had told my husband if my intentions and he gave it a go ahead , so what's left is to start learning.
The Next Chapter Starts Now
I enter 2024 feeling an incredible sense of hope, resolve and readiness for all the personal progress ahead. No more waiting for some magical “new year, new me!” transformations. The time for action is clearly right now.
With thoughtful effort and consistency, I know I can make this my best year yet! Saving money, acquiring skills, finding enriching hobbies, creating restorative getaways and pushing social boundaries will nourish me from the inside out. By intentionally bettering myself, I also strengthen bonds as an even more present friend, family member and community member.
Here’s to no more powerless procrastination but instead actively creating the life I wish to be living.
This is my response to the ladies of hive prompt for the ladies of hive prompt week 166
